driving

Driving in Croatia is one of the best ways to fully appreciate the country. It allows you to enjoy the magnificent scenery that Croatia has to offer, as well as making your visit more flexible. Driving in Croatia makes it much easier to explore the country, whilst also making it possible for you to visit destinations that are slightly further afield such as Montenegro or Slovenia. Whether you are taking your own car or hiring a vehicle here is some helpful information to make your driving experience as pleasurable as possible.

Driving Requirements in Croatia

You must have a full UK Driving licence to be able to drive in Croatia. If you have travelled across Europe with your own car you will also need to have with you your proof of ownership with you, and your insurance information.

Basic information for driving in Croatia

Credit: Filippo Giunchedi

Driving is on the right hand side of the road, with over-taking taking place on the left.

Mobile phones must not be used when driving.

Seat belts are mandatory so must always be worn.

Children under 12 are not permitted to sit in the front seat of the vehicle. Babies and children up to the age of 5 must be in a suitable child safety seat. Children aged between 5 years old and 12 years old, dependent on their height and weight, must use a booster seat.

Safety information and requirements when driving in Croatia.

Credit: Alehins

From the end of October until the last weekend in March you must always have your headlights on, even in daylight.

A high visibility jacket must be kept in the car at all times, and must be worn at any time that the driver is out of the vehicle for any reason, such as following an accident, changing a tire, making repairs.

If you need emergency road help you can dial (+385) 1987 which is manned by English speakers who will try and assist you. This is provided by HAK – Croatia Auto Club, who also have an app which can be useful on your journey (available on the app store). Alternatively they also have further information on their website http://www.hak.hr/en

If you have an accident and need urgent assistance call the police on 112

Drink drive limit

The drink drive limit in Croatia is 0.05%

Speed limits

Please see below for a list of usual speed limits. In certain areas these may be different so please always take note of the road signs:

50km/h in settled areas

90km/h outside settled areas

110km/h on major roadways, highways

130km/h on motorways

(80km/h for vehicles towing a caravan/trailer without brakes)

Toll Roads

Credit: Vacation2

Some drivers prefer to avoid the toll roads and instead travel on the more scenic coastal roads. However for long distance driving the toll roads does allow for a shorter journey time. The majority of all toll roads are found on the motorways in Croatia. There are 7 motorways in total, all with tolls. You are charged for the distance you have travelled on the motorway and pay for the toll when you choose to exit the motorway. You can pay for the toll by cash, or by debit or credit card. There are also some 3 lane highways, such as the Istrian Y road which has two tolls, one at the Tunnel Uckat, and the other at ‘Mirna Viaduct’.

For more information on toll roads you can visit the Hvatske Autoceste website which has information of the motorways and tolls, as well as weather and traffic conditions reports – http://hac.hr/en/toll-rates